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In utero seasonal food insecurity and cognitive development: evidence from Ethiopia

Author

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  • Habtamu Beshir
  • Jean-Francois Maystadt

Abstract

Food insecurity is pervasive and highly seasonal in Ethiopia. In this study, we investigate the effect of seasonal food insecurity on child development. Exploiting the Young Lives Ethiopia dataset, we study the impact of in utero exposure to seasonal food insecurity on cognitive development for children of age 8 up to 12. We find that at age 8 in utero exposure to food insecurity shocks negatively, although insignificantly, affects cognitive development. But, at age 12, such exposure significantly reduces cognitive development. In utero exposure to seasonal food insecurity translates into a loss of 0.52 standard deviations in maths achievements score. Exposure during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy are found to have stronger detrimental effects. We also find stronger effects for boys.

Suggested Citation

  • Habtamu Beshir & Jean-Francois Maystadt, 2017. "In utero seasonal food insecurity and cognitive development: evidence from Ethiopia," Working Papers of LICOS - Centre for Institutions and Economic Performance 587006, KU Leuven, Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), LICOS - Centre for Institutions and Economic Performance.
    • Handle: RePEc:ete:licosp:587006
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    JEL classification:

    • I15 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health and Economic Development
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration

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